Choose Your Reaction

Hannah’s story tells us that her rival, Peninnah, kept provoking her in order to irritate her and this went on year after year. Whenever Hannah went up to the house of the Lord, her rival provoked her till she wept and would not eat. Her husband Elkanah would say to her, “Hannah, why are you weeping? Why don’t you eat? Why are you so downcast? Don’t I mean more to you than ten sons?

Hannah knew that her husband loved her, but even his encouragement could not comfort her. She could not keep from hearing Peninnah’s jeers and letting her hurtful words erode her self confidence.

Have you ever experienced something like this? Participating in a family gathering or celebration, surrounded by loved ones and that one person who seems to find joy in making you uncomfortable and getting under your skin. Do you allow them to steal your joy, your time with family and your appetite?

My heart goes out to Hannah’s husband who not only showered her with love and attention, but gave her a double portion at each feast. No wonder his response carried the hurt he must have felt when she reacted the way she did.

Although we cannot keep others from unjustly criticizing us, we can choose how we will react to their words. Rather than dwelling upon our problems, we can enjoy the loving relationships God has given us. In doing this, we can exchange self-pity and despair for hope and optimism. In addition, we will not be hurting others who have went out of their way to make our experience enjoyable.

Be Intentional about choosing your reactions to others.

Praises & Prayers

Father, please forgive me for the times that I have been so wrapped up in my own hurts that I’ve overlooked the kindness of others. Thank you for the many beautiful relationships that You have blessed me with and I pray that I will choose to respond in ways that bless and encourage them. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Messages from His Word

Psalm 42:5 MSG

Why are you down in the dumps, dear soul?
    Why are you crying the blues?
Fix my eyes on God—
    soon I’ll be praising again.
He puts a smile on my face.
    He’s my God.